About Pianist for Hire - Tonya Allender
My name is Tonya Allender and I have been a pianist in Houston, Texas for over 24
years.
I began my training of the piano at the age of three. As a child, my parents and I would
attend church services. When I heard a song that I liked, I would remember it
in detail, without seeing the music. I would then go home to my small fifteen
key organ and replay the song I heard in church. It was at this time that my
parents discovered my ear for music.
I continued to absorb music I would hear on the radio and in service, never faltering in
replaying the piece on my little organ.
At the age of eight, I began private instruction with a piano teacher by the name of Randi
Jackson. This wonderful woman developed my ear-training while also teaching me
to read music. I was very fortunate to become the student of a teacher who did
develop my ear for music, and not disregard it. I trained with Randi for eight
years and won first place in competitions under her direction. My last recital
with her consisted of a duet with she and I. I played the piano part and she
played the flute to “Somewhere Out There”. She, along with my parents,
enhanced my training and love of music and I am forever grateful for their love
and support.
I have over 29 years experience in music and have been playing professionally for over
thirteen years. I have since been performing for retirement and assisted
living communities, high-end restaurants, weddings and anniversaries,
receptions, corporate and private parties, holiday gatherings, and cruise
ships. I also play for my husband and children privately, which I thoroughly
enjoy.
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